You have to remember that you don't have to manhandle 650 lbs of motorcycle. If you did, no one could ride the things. They are designed to stay upright practically by themselves.
I wouldn't recommend the chrome handgrips. They are for looks only- your hands will get very tired of holding onto them as opposed to nice, soft rubber ones.
As for shifting, do it by ear. Harleys have a broad power range so you don't have to constantly be changing gears to stay in the powerband. For example, you can putt around in town at 40mph in 5th and need to downshift only if you're slowing further or need to accelerate suddenly.

 

Let me first say, I know this is an old thread, but I can perfectly relate.

I just finished my Motorcycle safety course and got my license, and now shopping for a Wide Glide. I'm 6' 4" and 280 so this seemed like a good bike from what i've read.

For some reason, I can't see the pics of the bikes posted in this thread.

I was wondering if the Wide Glide would be a good choice for my first bike ever. My safety course was on a little 250.

 

Congratulations man. I bought my first bike last September and it was a 07 Superglide. I am looking at getting forward controls and new pipes. I am 6'2 but only 160 but the mid controls are ok for now. But the first thing you should get would be forward controls if they aren't already on there.

 

Congrats on the bike bro! Mines and 07 WG and i wouldnt trade it for nothing!(but i will buy a diffrent one in the future lol) Im 6'4 275 and have loved mine for almost two yrs now! Ride safe brother!

 

You need 5 posts and 5 days before you can see the pictures. The posts are easy (I used the Test forum), but waiting the 5 days is the tough part.